FEMA Announces the Executive Fire Officer Symposium

Release Date: March 3, 2005

Washington, D.C.- Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Emergency Preparedness and Response (EP&R) announced today the 17th Annual Executive Fire Officer Program (EFOP) Graduate Symposium that had originally been planned for April has been rescheduled for June 1-3, 2005. This important alumni event for graduates of the United States Fire Administration's Executive Fire Officer Program was attended by over 200 attendees in 2004. The symposium features a combination of educational sessions that reinforce the major EFOP curriculum themes, including executive leadership, applied research, community risk reduction, and the planning, management and mitigation of all types of emergency incidents, including those involving terrorism.

"I join with President Bush and Secretary Chertoff in their support of opportunities for leaders of the Nation's fire departments to expand their knowledge and abilities to contribute to this Nation's homeland security," said Brown. "Today's fire service leadership faces significant challenges in support of the safety of our Nation. They are challenged by community fire threats but must also prepare for and respond to natural and technological hazards."

Four current EFOP participants will present their 2004 Outstanding Applied Research Award winning papers and be recognized for their contributions to the ever growing body of knowledge of America's fire service. The Symposium provides yet another opportunity to network with EFOP alumni and further extend these networking relationships.

Alumni of the EFOP may apply by completing and submitting a General Admissions Application (FEMA Form 75-5). This form can be accessed at http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/training/nfa/about/attend/nfa-abt1c.shtm In Block 9a, please specify "Executive Fire Officer Program Graduate Symposium (R120)." The U.S. Fire Administration provides the program, bus transportation to and from the Baltimore/Washington area arrival airport, and housing accommodations. Attendees are responsible for their transportation and meal costs. Exact meal costs will be provided within the acceptance letter.

Applications should be sent to:

National Emergency Training Center
Department of Homeland Security - U.S. Fire Administration
c/o Admissions - Executive Fire Officer Program Graduate Symposium
16825 South Seton Avenue
Emmitsburg, Maryland 21727

Due to limited space, applications will be prioritized on a first-received, first-served basis. Applications must be received by April 18, 2005. Questions may be directed to angela.krantz@associates.dhs.gov

FEMA prepares the nation for all hazards and manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, trains first responders, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.